Virtuoso has unveiled its 2025 Luxe Report, an annual forecast highlighting how, where and why savvy travelers will be exploring in the year ahead. The global travel agency network, which specializes in luxury and experiential travel, tapped its travel advisors from around the world to share top recommendations for every jetsetter’s wish list.
Virtuoso’s nine must-have experiences for 2025:
See Spot … Fly First Class: High-end airlines and hotels are rolling out the red carpet for pets, offering animal-friendly accommodations, exclusive amenities and even first-class travel options. Pet owners are happily splurging to ensure their furry companions travel in comfort. And it’s not just cost that’s a non-issue—distance doesn’t matter, either. From weekend getaways to international trips, travelers are eager to bring their pets along.
Soak up Slovenia: This rising European country is an adventure lover’s paradise. Travelers can cliff dive into the Soča River, paddle along the shores of Lake Bled and explore the depths of Postojna Cave. When snow falls, hitting the slopes at Krvavec and Vogel is a great option, which can be followed by a soothing soak in one of Slovenia’s natural thermal springs. It’s an alluring new place to make a splash.
Unplug in the Amazon: Travelers will leave behind the digital world and experience the rainforests of the Amazon. Virtuoso’s 2024 Brand & Travel Tracker, conducted in partnership with YouGov, found that 57 percent of luxury travelers prioritize awe and wonder of nature as their top emotional driver when planning a trip. With no Wi-Fi, no distractions and no pressure to be “on,” nothing is standing in the way of reconnecting with nature and oneself.
Say Olá to Portugal: Globetrotters are turning away from overcrowded, pricier European hotspots and setting their sights on Portugal, the Luxe Report’s top destination to watch in 2025. The country offers warm hospitality and mild climate.
Chill with Cool Creatures: For the second consecutive year, wildlife conservation and interaction lead the Luxe Report’s sustainable tourism trends. Adventurers are heading to polar regions to observe precious wildlife facing the effects of climate change in their natural habitats. Polar safaris offer intimate encounters with penguins in Antarctica, polar bears in South Georgia and narwhals in Canada, all while supporting vital conservation efforts that help preserve their environments.
Get Down and Yurt-y: For those looking to venture off the beaten path, a stay in a Mongolian yurt combines rugged wilderness with a bit of refinement. Digital nomads can experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle in these yurts, an authentic way to interact with local traditions, appreciate the beauty of the vast steppe and get closer to nature without giving up comfort.
Cruise the Canals (Company Optional): According to the Luxe Report, river cruising is a top trend for the solo set in 2025, and there’s no better way to explore Europe’s best than on a scenic voyage through its storied waterways. Travelers will look to cruise from Amsterdam to Bucharest, taking in iconic landmarks while connecting with fellow voyagers or savoring solitary moments.
Ditch the Script, Trust the Expert: Embrace the magic of serendipity by leaving room for the unexpected. Partner with a professional travel advisor to make the most of a destination without over-scheduling every moment. Their expertise creates the perfect balance, providing enough structure to capture the can’t-miss highlights, while staying flexible enough to let the journey unfold in surprising and memorable ways.
Circle the Earth in Style: Intrepid travelers are ready to circumnavigate the globe in one extraordinary journey—the only question is at what pace. Traveling by private jet means speed, flexibility and exclusivity, with tailored itineraries and premium service. For those who prefer a slower tempo, world cruises permit a more leisurely, in-depth experience, combining months of discovery with all-inclusive luxury and ocean views. Either way, adventure has never felt so glamorous or been more personal.
More than 2,200 travel advisors across 48 countries contributed to the Luxe Report, using their extensive knowledge to identify the top trends for 2025. Working with a professional advisor unlocks a host of benefits, including special access, customized amenities and collaborative planning, backed by expertise and worldwide connections. This year, Virtuoso has seen a 76 percent increase in the number of people seeking out advisors through its website.
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